LAist relies on your reader support, not paywalls.
Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today.
12-Year-Old Santa Monica Boy Dies, Possibly after Playing the 'Choking Game' [Updated]
Photo by CarbonNYC via Flickr
A young boy died last week in what police are calling an "accidental death." On April 20th, Santa Monica Police officers were called to a medical emergency on the 800 block of 18th Street. The 12-year-old was found in full cardiac arrest and taken to the hospital. Two days later, he was taken off life support and pronounced dead a short time later. Based on preliminary information, police say the death may have been a result of engaging in the "Choking Game"--its goal is asphyxiation.
"Asphyxiation results by applying pressure which restricts oxygen and/or blood flow to the brain of the victim therefore creating a desired euphoric sensation," a department news release stated.